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The Decumani: Ancient Heart of Naples

Explore the Decumani in Naples: a journey through ancient streets, vibrant culture, and millennia of history in the heart of the city.

The Decumani are the ancient east-west Roman roads that have shaped Naples' historic center for millennia. Exploring these vibrant streets offers a journey through time, revealing the city's rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and bustling local life.

A brief summary to Decumani

  • Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, IT
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Decumani.

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Try the local street food, such as pizza a portafoglio (folded pizza) and sfogliatella (shell-shaped pastry).
  • Visit the underground ruins and tunnels beneath the Decumani for a unique perspective on the city's history.
  • Be aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Decumani are located in the heart of Naples' historic center and are easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From Piazza Garibaldi (Naples Central Station), walk west along Corso Umberto I, then turn north onto Via Duomo. The Decumani area begins a few blocks north of Via Duomo. From Molo Beverello port, walk inland along Via Cristoforo Colombo, then turn right onto Via Duomo. Walking is the best way to experience the Decumani, as the area is pedestrian-friendly and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the many historical and cultural landmarks along the way.

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to the Decumani is Università on Line 1. From the station, walk north along Via Monteoliveto, then turn right onto Via San Biagio dei Librai (Spaccanapoli). The Decumani area is a short walk from the station. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Piazza Cavour (Line 2) or Museo (Line 1), both of which are within walking distance of the Decumani. A single metro ticket costs €1.30. A 90-minute integrated ticket (valid for multiple rides on different modes of transport) costs €1.80. A day ticket costs €4.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Naples. A taxi from Naples Central Station to the Decumani area will cost approximately €11. From the Molo Beverello port, a taxi to the Decumani will also cost around €11. Taxi fares in Naples start at €3.50 on weekdays and €6.50 on Sundays and holidays. There are also predetermined tariffs for main destinations.

Discover more about Decumani

The Decumani are three main east-west streets in Naples that date back to the Greco-Roman era. These streets – the Decumano Superiore (Via della Sapienza and Via dell'Anticaglia), Decumano Maggiore (Via dei Tribunali), and Decumano Inferiore (Spaccanapoli) – form the grid of the ancient city, intersected by numerous north-south streets called cardini. Walking along the Decumani is a journey through layers of history, where Greek and Roman urban planning seamlessly blend with later architectural styles and Neapolitan culture. The Decumano Maggiore, the central and longest of the three, is now known as Via dei Tribunali. This bustling street is lined with historic buildings, churches, artisan workshops, and pizzerias, offering a vibrant snapshot of Neapolitan life. The Decumano Inferiore, famously called Spaccanapoli, literally splits the city in two. This narrow, lively street is packed with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks, providing an immersive experience of Naples' unique atmosphere. The Decumano Superiore, now comprising Via della Sapienza and Via dell'Anticaglia, has undergone significant transformations over the centuries but still retains glimpses of its Greco-Roman past. Exploring the Decumani means diving into the heart of Naples, where the past and present intertwine. Visitors can admire ancient ruins, ornate churches, and grand palaces, as well as savor the flavors of local cuisine and witness the vibrant energy of the city. The Decumani are a testament to Naples' enduring spirit and its rich, multilayered history.

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